Google improves symptom search results for better answers to health-related queries

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How many times has it happened with you when you looked up for remedies for headache on Google and after browsing for a few minutes you ended up believing that you are most probably dying? Well, Google is finally going to address this problem by improving the way its search engine responds to symptom-related queries. Soon, such results on Google will be accompanied by an overview of the symptom along with the ways for treatment, and when and what would warrant a visit to the doctor. Essentially, Google is integrating a Webmd-like platform within its search results on the mobile.

Also, all health related search results will be ushered by adequate amount of information for you to get a good overview of the symptom before you break into a panic. This is in case of a general symptom search, for an example, backache. In case of a more specific search, like lower back pain, the search will provide you with a list of related conditions.

Moreover, each result will be accompanies by feedback of users so that Google can further improve its upshots. At the end of each result, users will be asked if it was helpful and catered to their requirement.

Google teamed up with experts at Harvard Medical College and Mayo Clinic in order to assess the authenticity of the search results. The new search result algorithm will for now only be introduced in the US in English. However, Google eventually plans to roll out the feature in other nations and languages.

That said, Google also highlights the fact that these search results are a mere mode of providing information, and users must consult a professional in case of a medical issue. According to Google, about one per cent of the total searches (which would be like millions!) on the search engine are health related.

The latest announcement comes months after
Google teamed up with Apollo Hospital to use the latter’s expertise to improve its health-related searches. The tie up was part of Google’s new initiative ‘ Health Cards ‘ in India. The Health Card aims at providing basic information like symptoms, diagnosis and self-treatment of a disease through Google search in a language that is free of jargons and is easy to understand for a layman.

Google improves symptom search results for better answers to health-related queries | Latest Tech News, Video & Photo Reviews at BGR India
 
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